UAE extends Nafees till 2040, adds monthly salary support and unlimited child allowance / Image: File

In a significant move to strengthen Emirati employment in the private sector, the UAE announced a major extension of its flagship Nafis programme, with benefits extended until 2040. The announcement was made under the directives of Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, reinforcing the country’s long-term vision of empowering Emirati talents and enhancing job security.The updated plan introduces a wide range of financial and social support measures; The most notable change is the removal of any limits on child allowance. This marks a major change in the structure of family support under Nafis, especially for large Emirati families.Officials said the move reflects the leadership’s commitment to improving the quality of life by encouraging more citizens to join and remain in the private sector workforce.

UAE Nafees’ new allowance rules explained

One of the most significant changes under the revised, as well, is that the program continues to provide monthly salary top-ups that can reach up to Dh7,000 depending on eligibility and income level, along with pension contributions and unemployment assistance.Officials said the reforms are designed to better reflect real domestic needs while making private sector careers more financially viable for Emiratis. Along with expanded family-focused incentives, removing limits on child support is expected to particularly benefit larger families and improve long-term financial security, while encouraging more citizens to enter and remain in private sector roles.

Empowering Emirati women

The government is making it easier for every household member to contribute to the country’s economy. The new updates introduce a wage support program specifically targeted at children of Emirati mothers working in the private sector.Additionally, a new assistance scheme has been launched for wives of Emirati citizens working in the private sector. By broadening the safety net, the Emirates Talent Competitiveness Council (ETCC) aims to create a “dynamic and stable work environment” that protects family income while encouraging more citizens to switch from public office to private enterprise.

How does the Nafees Program work?

Nafis’ expansion plays a central role in the UAE’s broader Emiratization strategy, which seeks to increase citizens’ participation in private sector employment. At a high-level meeting of the Emirates Talent Competitiveness Council held at Qasr Al Watan, Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan highlighted the remarkable progress of the Nafees programme, revealing that it has already exceeded its initial employment targets. Since its launch in 2021, more than 176,000 Emiratis have entered the private sector, reflecting a sea change in the country’s workforce landscape. Currently, approximately 152,000 citizens across 32,000 companies actively benefit from Nafees, demonstrating the wide reach and impact of the programme.The program also supports the UAE’s economic diversification goals by encouraging citizens to contribute to key industries beyond the public sector.

What will happen next?

Sheikh Mansoor described Nafees as the “cornerstone” of national talent development. By extending the program until 2040, the UAE is sending a clear message to both citizens and the global market: Emiratization is not a temporary trend, but a permanent structural shift.Along with financial aid, the program is also doubling down on “jobs of the future.” The third cycle of the Nafees Awards introduces categories for AI, robotics and renewable energy, ensuring that the next generation is not only employed, but leading the industries of tomorrow. With more than 38,000 children already receiving support from the allowance scheme, the UAE is betting big on its people as its “greatest asset”.